“Stop a bit,” she said; “there’s another way.”
“What is it, what is it, Patty?”
“But it wants money; it costs a bit of money—a person has to go to London to get it.”
“Oh, Patty, Patty, haven’t I told you——”
“Stop!” she said; “I’m going to think it over; perhaps it can be done, after all, if you’ll do what I tell you. Don’t come near the Seven Thorns to-night; stay at home and be very good to the old folks; say you’d like to see London and a little life, and you’re tired of here.”
“But that would be a lie!”
“Oh, you softhead, if you’re going to stick at that! Perhaps you don’t want me at all, Mr. Gervase. Give me up; it would be far the best thing for you, far the best thing for you! and then there’s nothing more to be said.”
“Oh, Patty!” cried the poor fellow; “oh, Patty! when you know I’d give up my life for you.”
“Then do as I say, and mind everything I say, and I’ll see if it can’t be done.”